bestchance Pakenham offices were officially opened today by Mayor of Cardinia Shire, Collin Ross.
By 10am this morning the group of guests, representatives from local government and the Department of Education and Training, Council employees, employees from affiliated organizations, members of Pakenham service providers and bestchance staff, were seated for the commencement of speeches. bestchance trainer Adam began the morning, welcoming Elder Uncle Perry who performed a ‘Welcome to Country’ in recognition of the traditional custodians of the land, the Wurundjeri and Bunurong people.
Following this was CEO Kevin Feeney, who spoke about the future of bestchance and plans for the coming years. Mayor Cr. Collin Ross spoke next, followed by the ceremonial ‘Unveiling of the Plaque.’ The guests then celebrated with refreshments including a beautifully designed and prepared cake by local bakery, Bistro Vanille.
The new offices will play host to a range of programs including family day care, community support, early childhood intervention, bestchance Training, kindergarten, child care and the volunteers program. State-of-the-art facilities host 15 staff members, and will support the 35 existing bestchance services in the area. These services are accessed by approximately 1600 children and their families, whilst community members may now pursue further education through bestchance Training.
The Pakenham building will support families in the South East Region including Cardinia, City of Grater Dandenong, Yarra Ranges and Bass Coast (preparation for services in Baw Baw Shire are also underway). The provision of bestchance support services will offer the community specialized and focused assistance, particularly parents and families with young children, and those wishing to undertake of a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Certificate III in Education Support and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. Through this, bestchance hopes to continue helping to create the best future for families and individuals, by encouraging adult learning and inspiring active members of the community.
